In partnership with Google, Taiwan’s Ministry of Environment, and Stantec, the Hsinchu City Government in Taiwan has begun construction on a nature-based water treatment facility intended to reduce local water pollution. Stantec is providing technical support for the design and delivery of the project, drawing on its experience with nature-based treatment approaches.
The facility is designed to treat more than 450 million gallons of water per year. It is intended to reduce pollution in the Xipuzi Drainage and contribute to ecological restoration efforts in the Touqian River basin. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. A 10-year operation and monitoring phase is scheduled to begin in 2027 to assess performance and environmental outcomes.
Water treatment approach
The facility will use natural gravel beds to encourage the growth of biofilms that help break down pollutants. This method, known as a gravel contact oxidation process (GCOP), is intended to improve water quality before treated water is discharged back into the Touqian River. The process is expected to reduce pollutant levels and support downstream flow conditions. By lowering exposure to harmful pathogens, the facility is intended to support aquatic habitat restoration and public health improvements. Improved water quality in the Touqian River may also contribute to greater watershed resilience and support water availability in other parts of Taiwan.
The process is expected to reduce pollutant levels and support downstream flow conditions
“This project represents what it means to engineer the future. By working collaboratively with local governments and global partners, we can deliver sustainable infrastructure that supports vibrant communities and a thriving environment,” said Paul Chuo, executive deputy general manager at Stantec’s Taiwan office. “We’re honored to work with Google on this transformational project and show the world one of the many possibilities for a healthier, more resilient future.”
Public-private collaboration
Google has provided US$3 million to support the construction, operation, and maintenance of the GCOP facility. The contribution aligns with the company’s water stewardship efforts, which focus on improving watershed health in areas where it operates.
The Hsinchu City Government noted that this is its first public water infrastructure project to receive direct support from a global enterprise. City officials stated that the collaboration aims to address local needs while supporting broader urban resilience and livability goals.
“Our collaboration with Hsinchu City supports the construction and long-term success of this important initiative, which will help make tangible contributions to water restoration and environmental health in the Touqian watershed,” said Ben Townsend, Google’s global head of infrastructure and sustainability. “This project is another example of how we’re working to help improve watershed health in the communities where we operate.”
